2-Methoxyethanol is an organic chemical compound, specifically a hydroxyether, known for its use as a protic solvent and a general solvent.
This compound is a derivative of ethanol, where a methoxy group (-OCH₃) is attached to the second carbon atom. Its unique molecular structure, combining an alcohol's hydroxyl group with an ether's methoxy group, gives it distinct chemical properties that make it valuable in various applications, particularly as a solvent.
Understanding 2-Methoxyethanol
Chemical Structure and Composition
2-Methoxyethanol is chemically described as ethanol substituted by a methoxy group at position 2. This means its basic framework is that of ethanol (CH₃CH₂OH), but at the second carbon atom, one of the hydrogen atoms is replaced by a methoxy group (CH₃O-).
- Parent Molecule: Ethanol (a simple alcohol)
- Substituent Group: Methoxy (-OCH₃)
- Substitution Position: At the 2nd carbon atom of the ethanol chain
- Chemical Formula: C₃H₈O₂
This classification as a hydroxyether highlights its dual functional groups: a hydroxyl (-OH) group characteristic of alcohols, and an ether (-O-) linkage.
Roles and Applications
The primary role of 2-Methoxyethanol is its function as a solvent. Its molecular characteristics enable it to dissolve a wide array of substances, making it useful in various chemical processes.
- Protic Solvent: The presence of the hydroxyl group allows 2-Methoxyethanol to donate protons, classifying it as a protic solvent. This property is crucial in chemical reactions that involve proton transfer or require hydrogen bonding.
- General Solvent: Beyond its protic nature, it serves as a versatile general solvent, capable of dissolving both polar and some non-polar compounds due to the balance of its alcohol and ether functionalities.
Key Identifiers
For chemical identification and reference, 2-Methoxyethanol is associated with specific identifiers:
- Compound Name: 2-Methoxyethanol
- Chemical Formula: C₃H₈O₂
- Classification: Hydroxyether
- PubChem CID: 8019
Summary of 2-Methoxyethanol
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Common Name | 2-Methoxyethanol |
| Chemical Formula | C₃H₈O₂ |
| Compound Class | Hydroxyether |
| Structural Basis | Ethanol with a methoxy group (-OCH₃) at the 2nd carbon position |
| Key Roles | Protic solvent, General solvent |
| PubChem CID | 8019 |
